Embattled Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, made a return to the Senate on Tuesday, marking her comeback after a six-month suspension.
Her return coincided with the resumption of plenary by the red chamber following a 10-week annual recess, which began on 24 July 2025 and was originally scheduled to end on 23 September 2025.
However, the Senate resumed slightly behind schedule, with plenary proceedings presided over by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, as Senate President Godswill Akpabio was notably absent at the time of reconvening.
Despite Akpabio’s absence, legislative business resumed in full swing, with a high turnout of senators signalling the end of the recess and a return to full parliamentary activity.
Senator Natasha, whose suspension had stirred public and political debate earlier in the year, was conspicuously present at the session — drawing attention as she quietly rejoined her colleagues on the Senate floor.
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In a symbolic gesture of international solidarity, some senators arrived dressed in Palestinian colours and attire, using the resumption to voice support for the Free Palestine movement, adding a diplomatic layer to the day’s proceedings.
While details of legislative business discussed during the closed-door session remain under wraps, the atmosphere in the chamber pointed to a re-energised Senate prepared to tackle key national issues in the weeks ahead.
Senator Natasha’s reinstatement follows sustained public and legal pressure after her controversial suspension, which some critics described as politically motivated. Her return is expected to add momentum to ongoing discussions around democratic accountability and representation within the legislature.
The red chamber is expected to continue with debates on the 2026 budget framework, constitutional amendments, and security-related bills in the coming days.
